The International Foodservice Manufacturers Association has named Phil Kafarakis, a veteran food industry and trade group executive, as its new president.
Kafarakis will take over the organization, which represents manufacturers of food and other supplies to the foodservice industry, on Nov. 1. He will replace Larry Oberkfell, who is leaving for another industry opportunity after 12 years at the helm of IFMA.
Kafarakis has had positions at Kraft Foods, Jones Dairy Farm, Cargill, and McCormick & Co., where he also served on IFMA's board of directors. Most recently, he served as president of the Specialty Food Association, representing more than 4,000 small and emerging food entrepreneurs. Prior to his SFA appointment, Kafarakis served as the chief innovation and member advancement officer at the National Restaurant Association.
"The IFMA Board couldn't be more pleased with the search committee's choice," Hugh Roth, a senior vice president at PepsiCo Foodservice and the 2021 IFMA board chair, said in a statement. "We are confident that Phil will bring the leadership, energy and enthusiasm to continue to provide member value and move IFMA forward."
